Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: Sources of Creativity

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, containing stories, legends, fairy tales, proverbs, folk songs, and traditional festivals that reflect the lives, souls, and intellect of the Vietnamese people over many generations. Fairy tales such as Tam Cam, Thach Sanh, and So Dua are not only entertaining stories but also carry profound educational meanings, reflecting the people’s aspirations for justice and goodness. The characters in the stories, whether good or evil, contribute to a vivid picture of the past society.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: The Wisdom of the Folk

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that summarize the life experiences of the folk. We can find in proverbs the wisdom, keen observation, and profound philosophy of life of the ancients. For example, the proverb “An qua nho ke trong cay” (One who eats the fruit should remember the one who planted the tree) teaches us about gratitude, while “Co cong mai sat co ngay nen kim” (Diligence can turn iron into needles) emphasizes perseverance. Folk songs express people’s feelings, thoughts, and aspirations, often expressed through lyrical songs, rich in imagery and music.

Traditional Festivals: Community Connections

Traditional festivals are an indispensable part of Vietnamese folklore. Each festival has its own meaning, linked to beliefs, history, and community life. From bustling village festivals to large national festivals, all demonstrate the unity, bonding, and respect for ancestors of the Vietnamese people. Festivals are not only occasions for entertainment but also opportunities to preserve and promote traditional cultural values.

Intangible Cultural Heritage: A Living Museum

Vietnamese folklore is also expressed through many forms of intangible cultural heritage such as water puppetry, folk music, pottery making, embroidery… These heritages are not only products of creative labor but also evidence of the endurance and development of Vietnamese culture throughout the ages. Preserving and promoting these heritages is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is an invaluable treasure that needs to be preserved and promoted so that future generations can continue to inherit and develop it. Learning about and experiencing folklore will help us better understand the history, people, and cultural identity of Vietnam.